COVID-19

Vaccination

We administer the Pfizer booster as soon as two months after completion of the primary series.  We no longer offer the primary series. Demand has dropped dramatically as many students, faculty and staff received the primary series when it was first offered. A primary series of two vaccinations against COVID-19 is widely available in the community. Those still seeking a first series should reach out to their primary care provider, local pharmacies, or the county health department for vaccination. 

Boosters are offered to eligible individuals on a limited clinic schedule. They are also widely available in the community.

For the latest information from Western Michigan University, visit the WMU page about COVID-19. For information about vaccinations, visit the COVID-19 Vaccinations page.

Symptoms

Reported illnesses have ranged from mild symptoms to severe illness and death for confirmed COVID-19 cases. Symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after exposure, based on what has been seen previously as the incubation period of MERS-CoV viruses:

  • Fever (above 100.4F degrees)
  • Cough (not due to a chronic condition)
  • Chills
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sudden loss of sense of taste or smell
  • Muscle aches (not due to a chronic condition)
  • Diarrhea (not due to a chronic condition)
  • Severe fatigue
  • Nasal congestion (not due to a chronic condition)

Prevention and Treatment

The best way to prevent illness is to get vaccinated. However, as a reminder, the CDC always recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases, including:

  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Follow CDC recommendations and government orders for using a face covering.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
    • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty.